By Dr. Brent Radford, Foot Focus Podiatry

Most people don’t give much thought to their feet until something starts to hurt. It could be a small ache after a long walk or a sharp pain in the heel that won’t go away. As a podiatrist in Perth who’s treated thousands of patients over the years, I’ve seen how easily small foot problems can turn into bigger ones if they’re left alone.

Why Your Feet Deserve More Attention

Your feet take an incredible amount of stress every day. Every step you take involves dozens of bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments working together. When one part stops functioning properly, the effects can travel up to your knees, hips, and even your back.

Foot pain isn’t something you should “push through.” It’s your body’s way of asking for help. Early intervention can save you from ongoing discomfort, costly treatments, or even surgery later on.

What a Podiatrist Actually Does

Many people are surprised by the range of things a podiatrist can help with. At Foot Focus Podiatry, our role goes beyond trimming nails or treating corns. We look after the full spectrum of foot and lower limb health — from diagnosing biomechanical issues to treating chronic pain and helping patients recover from injuries.

Some of the most common reasons people visit a podiatrist in Perth include:

• Heel pain and plantar fasciitis

• Ingrown toenails and nail surgery

• Bunions and toe deformities

• Flat feet or high arches

• Corns, calluses, and cracked heels

• Diabetic foot checks

• Custom orthotics and gait assessments

Each of these conditions has its own cause, and no two patients are the same. What works for one person may not help another, which is why we take time to understand your daily activities, footwear habits, and medical background before deciding on treatment.

Experience Shapes Better Care

Over the past two decades, I’ve worked with people from all walks of life — athletes, tradespeople, office workers, and retirees. Perth’s lifestyle keeps most people on their feet, whether they’re running along the coast or standing all day for work. That constant pressure often brings out hidden foot issues.

Experience matters in podiatry. A good practitioner learns to spot subtle patterns — a gait imbalance, a pressure point, or a footwear issue — that could lead to ongoing pain. My approach combines practical experience with up-to-date treatment methods so patients get care that’s both evidence-based and realistic for their lifestyle.

The Value of Preventive Podiatry

One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is that you only need to see a podiatrist when something hurts. In reality, preventive care is the best kind. A routine visit can reveal early warning signs of problems like collapsed arches, nail fungus, or diabetic complications before they become serious.

At our Perth clinic, we focus heavily on education. Patients often tell me that the advice they get during their appointment — on footwear, stretching, or posture — helps them stay pain-free long after their visit. Prevention is always more effective (and affordable) than treatment after the damage is done.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Your first appointment at Foot Focus Podiatry starts with a conversation. I want to understand what’s been happening with your feet and how it’s affecting your day-to-day life. Then we perform a full examination, which may include a gait assessment, footwear check, and simple diagnostic tests if needed.

After identifying the cause of the issue, I’ll explain your options clearly. In some cases, conservative treatments like strapping, exercises, or orthotics are enough. For others, a minor procedure may be required. My goal is always to use the simplest, most effective solution first.

Building Trust Through Honest Advice

Foot care should never feel rushed or confusing. I believe in giving patients clear, straightforward explanations and realistic expectations. Sometimes that means advising against unnecessary treatments; sometimes it’s about helping people see that a small change — like a different shoe or an insert — can make a huge difference.

Trust is built over time. Many of my long-term patients have been seeing me for years, often bringing their family members in too. That loyalty is built on honesty, consistency, and results.

Why Local Experience Matters

Perth’s environment creates its own set of challenges for foot health. Warm weather means more open footwear, which can lead to dry, cracked heels or increased exposure to fungal infections. Runners and hikers often deal with heel pain or ankle strain from uneven terrain. Having a podiatrist in Perth who understands these local factors means your care plan can be better tailored to your lifestyle.

Simple Steps to Keep Your Feet Healthy

Good foot care starts at home. Here are a few habits I recommend to nearly every patient:

• Keep your feet clean and dry. Moisture between the toes can lead to fungal infections.

• Moisturise daily. A non-greasy cream can prevent cracks and dryness.

• Trim nails carefully. Cut straight across and avoid rounding the corners to prevent ingrown nails.

• Wear proper shoes. Look for arch support, cushioning, and room for your toes.

• Rotate your footwear. This helps shoes dry out and reduces odour and bacteria build-up.

• Check your feet regularly. Especially if you have diabetes, any changes in colour, sensation, or wounds should be examined promptly.

These small actions make a big difference over time and help prevent many of the common problems we see in the clinic.

The Foot Focus Podiatry Difference

Our clinic has always been built around the idea of personalised, professional care. Every treatment plan is designed to fit the individual, not the diagnosis. We invest in modern diagnostic tools and ongoing professional training to stay ahead in our field, but we never lose sight of what matters most — helping patients move comfortably again.

Whether you’re an athlete trying to recover from a sports injury or someone who simply wants to walk without pain, our goal is to help you regain confidence in every step.

Final Thoughts

Healthy feet are the base of an active, pain-free life. Ignoring pain or delaying treatment often makes things worse. Visiting a podiatrist Perth doesn’t just fix existing issues — it helps prevent future ones.

At Foot Focus Podiatry, my team and I are committed to providing the highest standard of care with a focus on education, prevention, and trust. Your feet support you every day — it’s time to return the favour.

If you’re noticing discomfort, or simply want a professional check-up, book an appointment today. We’ll help you keep moving comfortably for years to come.

—
Dr. Brent Radford
Owner & Senior Podiatrist, Foot Focus Podiatry – Perth